What Is Allowed to Go Into Construction Dumpsters?

What can you put inside construction dumpsters? 

Well, anything... right?

Not quite. While you can throw out most commercial waste in a dumpster, there are some things that can cause problems or safety concerns when tossed in a dump. Because of this, it's a good idea to talk to your dumpster rental company about their specific regulations before you start your cleanup. 

In general, though, most companies stick to the same rules. We've put together this guide to help you learn what can and can't go in a construction dumpster. 

So let's get started! 

Construction Debris

Since you're renting a construction dumpster, you can use it to get rid of almost any type of construction debris. This includes things like: 

• Stone and bricks
• Asphalt and concrete 
• Tiles 
• Wood and lumber 
• Drywall 
• Siding
• Countertops 
• Cabinets 
• Plumbing fixtures 
• Flooring (and subflooring) 
• Roofing material, such as shingles 
• Carpeting 
• Windows and glass 
• Etc. 

Pretty much any waste that comes from your construction projects can find its way to the dumpster. Keep in mind, though, if you have a lot of heavy waste, such as bricks and stones, you may need to rent a dumpster designed to hold that much weight. Otherwise, you'll go over the designated weight limit fast, which can lead to additional fees. 

Furniture

No matter what type, design, or size, you can throw your unwanted furniture in a construction dumpster. This includes things like: 

• Office desks
• Office chairs 
• Tables 
• Couches 
• Filing cabinets 
• Bookcases 
• Drawers 
• Etc.

The thing you need to consider when it comes to furniture is the material. Some areas won't accept furniture made of plastic or fabric (though this usually isn't the case). You may also have to pay extra for large, oversized pieces, especially if they "overflow" the dumpster. 

Appliances

As long as you drain them first, you can throw just about any appliance in the dumpster, such as: 

• Refrigerators 
• HVAC units 
• Washers and dryers 
• Dishwashers 
• Microwaves 
• Etc.

However, again, these appliances can't contain any type of liquids when you get rid of them. You'll need to call a professional in advance to drain the freon out of your fridge since this can be dangerous to anyone who comes in contact with it on the way to the dumpster. 

Electronics

You can put electronic devices inside your construction dumpster, but only a few. If you have a large number of electronic items, like a lot of old computers or office equipment, you won't be able to throw them all in the dumpster. Instead, you'll need to recycle them at an e-waste recycling center instead. 

Yard Waste

Most dumpster rental companies accept green waste, but some states don't want this type of waste ending up in their landfills. Because of this, you might not be able to put as much yard debris in the dumpster as you want. Make sure you talk to the company in advance so you can make a plan. 

In most cases, however, you can put all of the following in your construction dumpster. 

• Branches 
• Sticks 
• Leaves 
• Bushes 
• Rocks 
• Dirt 
• Etc. 

Other General Garbage

Do you have other garbage lying around your commercial building that doesn't fit into any of these categories? There's a good chance you can just go ahead and throw it in the dumpster. As long as it isn't hazardous or doesn't create a safety risk, the dumpster rental company will accept it. 

Things That Can't Go in Construction Dumpsters

While most types of garbage can go in your construction dumpster, there are several items you'll need to get rid of through other means. 

Why?

Landfills often don't accept these items, or they pose a safety risk to the dumpster rental company's employees. Never put any of these items in your dumpster without checking with the company first. 

Paints

Many paints contain lead or mercury, so landfills don't want them. However, as long as the paint is dry or the cans are empty, you can toss them in the dumpster. 

Inks and Resins

These types of liquids can stain or otherwise damage the dumpster itself. Because of this, most dumpster rental companies won't let you put them in the dumpster. 

Adhesives

Again, throwing adhesives in the dumpster can cause other items to get stuck to the bottom or sides of the dumpster. Keep these out of the garbage pile. 

Asbestos

Any construction materials that contain asbestos can't go to the landfill. Instead, you'll need to hire an asbestos professional to remove this material and throw it away safely. 

Cleaning Fluids

Never throw cleaning fluids, even simple household cleaning solutions, into the dumpster. If you want to get rid of these items, you'll need to dump out the bottles first. 

Oils and Fuels

Things like motor oil, gas, or propane tanks can't end up in the dumpster. Since these things are highly flammable, they create a serious safety risk. You can get rid of them at a hazardous waste collection center instead. 

Aerosol Cans

Unless they're empty, these cans can suddenly explode, which can lead to landfill fires or serious injuries to workers. If you want to throw them away, make sure they are completely empty first. 

Non-Alkaline Batteries

It's okay to put batteries in a construction dumpster, but only if they are alkaline batteries. Any other type of battery, such as car batteries, computer batteries, or rechargeable batteries, need to stay out. 

Tires

Most landfills don't accept full tires. If you have a few small pieces of a tire, though, the dumpster rental company might accept them. 

Renting the Right Construction Dumpster for Your Project Today

Now that you know what can and can't go in construction dumpsters, you're ready to rent to pick the right size for your job and start cleaning. Don't hesitate to get in touch with our team at Payless Rolloff to get schedule your dumpster drop off right away!